Ordering repeat prescriptions
The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:
- using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App). You can see all your regular prescription items, and can choose which you need.
- filling out the online form – Accurx
You can also:
- Fill out a paper prescription request form (available from reception). Please bring the paper form to the surgery. The reception desk is open Monday to Friday 8am to 6.30pm
We do not take repeat prescription requests by phone.
Please request your repeat medications 7 days before they are due. We aim to send a prescription to your pharmacy within 2 working days.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy two working days after you have ordered it.
You will need to choose a pharmacy to collect your prescription from. We call this nominating a pharmacy.
You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:
- on the NHS app or website
- at the practice
- at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
Questions about your prescription
If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacists can answer these. They can also answer questions on medicines you can buy without a prescription.
The NHS website has information on how your medicine works, how and when to take it, possible side effects and answers to your common questions.
Medication reviews
If you have a repeat prescription, we may ask you to come in for a regular review. We will be in touch when you need to come in for a review.
Prescription charges
Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).
What to do with old medicines
Take it to the pharmacy you got it from or bring it in to the surgery. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.
Pharmacy First Service
- The Pharmacy First Service launched on 31st January 2024. This scheme replaced the Community Pharmacy Consultation Service (CPSCS). The new Pharmacy First Service provides advice and treatment for a wider array of ailments and can safely be completed by the community pharmacy.
- We may refer you to community pharmacy where appropriate. You will be contacted by the right clinical staff who will be able to attend to your concerns more quickly and efficiently than a possibly unnecessary appointment at the practice.
- The PFS will include 7 new clinical pathways and can be found on the NHS England website. The service also incorporates the elements of the Community Pharmacist Consultation Service, i.e. minor illness consultations. These will enable pharmacists to:
- offer advice to patients
- supply NHS medicines where clinically appropriate (including some prescription-only medicines under Patient Group Directions), to treat the following common health conditions:
- sinusitis
- sore throat
- earache
- infected insect bites
- impetigo
- shingles
- uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women
Further information about the service can be found here Pharmacy First – South East London CCG (selondonccg.nhs.uk)
Prescriptions for over-the-counter medicines
You can buy over-the-counter medicines in pharmacies, supermarkets and some high street shops.
GPs, nurses and pharmacists will not usually give you a prescription for over-the-counter medicines.
Your local pharmacy offers help and clinical advice to manage minor health concerns. If your symptoms suggest it’s more serious, they will help you get the care you need.
Please help the NHS to use resources sensibly.
This advice is in line with national guidance from NHS England.
Further information:
About pharmacists
As qualified healthcare professionals, pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:
- coughs
- colds
- sore throats
- tummy trouble
- aches and pains
They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.
Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.
Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.